Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep condolences to Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, over the passing of their respective parents.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ododo lost his father, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, who died on Monday at the age of 83.
The APC National Chairman, Yilwatda, lost his mother, Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who passed away on Sunday morning at University of Jos Teaching Hospital, also at the age of 83.
In a condolence message on Tuesday, Shettima described both deaths as profound losses that resonate beyond their immediate families to the entire Nigerian political arena and the nation at large.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Usman Ododo and Professor Nentawe Yilwatda over the sad demise of their beloved parents.
“The two deaths within such a short period leave a collective grief for our political family and indeed the entire nation.
” These were pillars whose wisdom, prayers, and guidance shaped the character of leaders who today serve our people,” he noted.
Shettima praised the late Alhaji Ahmed Ododo as a devout Muslim and respected community figure whose values continue to manifest in Gov. Ododo’s dedicated service to Kogi State.
“Alhaji Ahmed was a most committed family patriarch who endeared himself to many with his devotion to Islamic values and community service.
” His greatest legacy lies in the exemplary leadership qualities he instilled in Gov. Ododo,” Shettima observed.
He equally eulogised Mama Lydia Yilwatda as a devoted Christian, virtuous woman leader, and pillar of the Church of Christ in Nations.
“Her contributions alongside her late husband significantly impacted church growth across multiple states.
“Mama Lydia was a beacon of Christian faith whose devotion to God and service to the church left an indelible legacy.
” Her motherly advice and prayers were instrumental in shaping Professor Yilwatda’s character and leadership qualities,” Shettima noted.
He acknowledged the particular challenge of losing parents while serving in high public office, expressing confidence that both leaders would draw strength from their parents’ legacies.
While offering prayers for both families, the Vice-President expressed confidence that the departed souls would find eternal rest.
